Kolkata, 16 August (H.S.) — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday paid homage to Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa on his Tirodhan Divas (death anniversary), describing him as a towering symbol of harmony among all faiths.

In a post on social media platform X, Banerjee wrote, “Humble tribute and salutations on the Tirodhan Divas of Sri Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsadev, the embodiment of the message ‘as many faiths, so many paths.’”

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa (1836–1886) occupies an unparalleled place in India’s spiritual tradition. A proponent of universalism, he believed that different religions and spiritual disciplines ultimately lead to the same truth. His enduring message — “as many faiths, so many paths” — continues to guide humanity beyond barriers of religion, caste, and creed.

During his lifetime, Ramakrishna worshipped Goddess Kali and personally practiced various spiritual paths including Vedanta, Islam, and Christianity to demonstrate their essential unity. His teachings were carried forward by his disciple Swami Vivekananda, who founded the Ramakrishna Math and Mission — organizations that remain active in education, service, and spiritual awakening worldwide.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh